Background:

Jan Cochard has been a cooperative member since 1992. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Recreational Therapy from Purdue University. He currently works as a Senior Logistic Courier for Quest Diagnostics. Previous employment included manager at Indy Tractor/Healy Equipment, owner/manager of Cochard Implements, sales district manager for Parts Associates and owner/operator of a dairy farm. Jan also has his real estate license and is a financial advisor and has his stockbroker license, series 7 and 66 and Indiana Life Insurance License. Jan is very involved in the 4-H program. He was a leader for the Hancock County 4-H Dog Obedience for numerous years and Entomology projects. He is an Indiana State Fair 4-H Dog Obedience and Agriculture Crops judge. He has been a presenter at several state 4-H leader training meetings. Jan was president of the Hancock County/Purdue University Cooperative Extension Board and Chairman of the Hancock County Farm Festival Tour. He received the Conservation Pollinator of the Year award from the Hancock County Soil and Water Conservation District for his efforts to help reestablish the Monarch butterfly flyway. Jan was also Chairman of the Deacons, Sunday School teacher, and Worship leader at his local church. Board member and past president, Mt. Vernon Community Schools. Past president of the Greater Greenfield Chamber of Commerce, Central Indiana Power Advisory Board, CIP and NineStar Connect Director Nominating Committee. Jan and his wife Gwen currently reside in Greenfield and have three children; Charles, Steven, and Christina.

Candidate Statement:

While serving on the Central Indiana Power Advisory Board, I became interested in the functioning of the Co-op utility. The growth and development of NineStar Connect has added to my interest in being involved with the Co-op. I have been a supporter of the District 5 director and now that he is retiring I think it is time for me to step forward and assume the responsibilities. I realize each director not only represents the members of their district but also represents all of the members of NineStar Connect. I look forward to being a part of the team utilizing my leadership and interpersonal skills to help guide our Co-op to the next level maintaining NineStar’s leadership among state and national utilities.